For those of you who follow politics (and for those of you who don't!), we want to update you on a very important event that happened yesterday evening in America: Senator Barack Obama became the official candidate for the Democrats in the U.S. Presidential election. He is the first African-American man to ever win this position, so this is an historical event for America (and it comes on the anniversary of women getting the right to vote — June 4, 1919!).

In November, Obama will represent the Democrats and senator John McCain will represent the Republicans in the election for President. This is a very exciting time for all of us, and if you haven't registered to vote yet, check out seventeen.com/declareyourself to find out how. It's easier than you think — promise!

If you are too young to vote, no worries, because there are lots of other ways to get involved. Check out the candidates using your Facebook and MySpace accounts (yep — politicians use them, too!), talk to your parents, and think about issues that are important to you.

Most important, Seventeen wants to know what you think about the elections and what changes you want to see in America! Sound off below!